Glass Houses

Stylish terrariums let you fawn over flora

If you still associate terrariums with that nerdy kid from science class, it's time to adjust your outlook. These days, the low-maintenance, glass-encased landscapes have gone decidedly chic--somewhere between a houseplant and a work of art--and bring an instant burst of nature to any room.

As for ready-made options, we love small and simple. This open-top, three-bowl set ($30) makes an understated window or bookshelf decoration. And the conversation-provoking lightbulb-terrarium ($55) demands prominent display, despite its tiny size.

Not that we have anything against bigger and bolder. Case in point: Litill's irregularly shaped collection ($150 to $800) and the self-sustaining (if wallet-draining) flora-cum-living statue from Partners & Spade ($9,500).

Still, when it comes to terrariums, there's nothing quite like making your own. Just fill a glass container--Sprout Home offers a gorgeous hanging version ($80)--with your choice of materials, like moss, rocks, charcoal, etc. You can even consult The New Terrarium($17) for extra inspiration.

Or forgo the hunting and gathering altogether in favor of a handy DIY kit. Brooklyn-based Twig sells some of the coolest we've seen ($25 to $100)--think miniature lawns, doll furniture and figurines in endless embrace--for constructing your tiny glass world.